Do you feel like your workload is taking over your life? It might not just be in your head – work-related stress can have a major impact on employees’ lives, both inside and outside the office. Research shows that feeling overwhelmed or having too much to do can lead to increased absenteeism, reduced job satisfaction, and even serious health concerns. As millennials especially, it’s important for us to learn how to manage our stress levels, so we don’t burn out at work. In this blog post, we’ll explore the surprising effects of work-related stressors and provide some tips on how to avoid them to help you keep a healthy balance between home and office life.
Loss of Concentration
One of the most common effects of work-related stress is a loss of concentration and focus. When you feel overwhelmed and overworked, staying focused on tasks and projects is difficult. This can lead to missed deadlines or mistakes that could have been avoided if you had been able to concentrate better. Not only can this be detrimental to your job, but it can also lead to increased stress as you try to make up for the lost time. A study from the University at Buffalo found that one in five workers reported experiencing a loss of concentration due to stress.
Increased Absenteeism
When work-related stress becomes too much to handle, it can lead to an increase in absenteeism. Not only does this affect your job performance, but it also has an impact on the company as a whole. A study from the University of Phoenix found that workers who experienced high levels of stress took up to three times more sick days than those with lower levels. In addition, absenteeism can lead to a decrease in morale for other employees and an increase in financial costs for the company.
Depression and Anxiety
The effects of work-related stress can extend far beyond the office. In some cases, employees may experience depression or anxiety due to feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope with their workloads. A study from the University of British Columbia found that workers experiencing high levels of work-related stress tend to suffer from depression and anxiety more than those with lower levels. This can have a serious impact on their personal lives, as well as lead to an increased risk of physical and mental health problems.
Changes in Behavior
Work-related stress can also lead to changes in behavior, both at work and outside the office. Employees feeling overwhelmed may become irritable or withdrawn, which can negatively impact their relationships with colleagues and supervisors. They may also be more likely to take risks or engage in activities that they wouldn’t normally do if they weren’t feeling so stressed. Things like restless nights and increased alcohol consumption can also be signs of work-related stress.
Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to avoid these effects and keep your stress levels in check. For example, you can take regular daily breaks – give yourself time to rest and recharge, so you don’t burn out. Make time for exercise and hobbies – this will help you stay focused during the day. Finally, set realistic goals for yourself, and don’t try to do too much at once. With these tips, you can keep your stress levels under control and have a healthy balance between work and life.